The NBLC Honours Black History Month

The National Basketball League of Canada, currently enjoying its eighth conscuctive season, is pleased to celebrate the achievements of visible minorities by recognizing Black History Month.

"The achievements of visible minorities in both our sport and our history are unparalleled and must never be forgotten," said NBL Canada Deputy Commissioner Audley Stephenson. "From the onset, our league has focused not on a person's colour, but on his skill and talents, both on the court and off. It's easy to boast that we have successful teams with black head coaches and black owners - but for us, it's also important to note that these accomplishments are not mere token nods, but are rightfully treated as accomplishments of equality."

"It's for this reason why our league takes a zero tolerance stance as it relates to racism, sexism, homophobia and other 'isms' that demean, disrespect or aim to make an individual(s) feel less than who they are."

"We pride ourselves on delivering an inclusive family friendly product and discrimination at any level has no place in our venues."

Founded in 2011, the National Basketball League of Canada is the True North's premier professional independent basketball league, with ten teams across the Maritimes and Ontario.

Among those visible minorities who have excelled in this league are Bill Jones, head coach of the Windsor Express for the past seven seasons, who has claimed two NBL Canada championships, and Cavell Johnson, a former Defensive Player of the Year and now head coach for the Kitchener-Waterloo Titans.

Teams that are owned by African-North American men include the Windsor Express, operated by Dartis Willis Sr., and the Cape Breton Highlanders, created and owned by Tyrone Levingston - whose father, Andre Levingston, once owned the NBL's Halifax Rainmen franchise and was a co-founder of the league.